InternetNZ alarmed by latest ACTA leaks

InternetNZ alarmed by latest ACTA leaks

Media Release
4 November 2009

InternetNZ (Internet New Zealand Inc) is concerned by media stories indicating a change in direction in the latest round of Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA) negotiations.

The negotiating round, being held today in Korea, has reportedly shifted focus to deal with non-commercial infringement of copyright material by ordinary citizens, and arguing for termination of people's Internet accounts.

"If correct, this is cause for alarm and shows a significant change in ACTA's focus,” says InternetNZ spokesperson Jordan Carter.

"Instead of focusing on customs procedures and stopping large scale commercial piracy, it seems the negotiations are turning to areas that should be out of bounds.

"Because the ACTA process is secret, none of us can know the precise details of what is being discussed.

"New Zealand should take a stand against any attempt to hijack the negotiations.

"Big music and movie interests, and other content producers, are conducting a global campaign to put their interests ahead of citizens' rights to use the Internet and to not be subject to unreasonable and arbitrary penalties that do nothing for the public interest.

“The New Zealand negotiators need to argue for ACTA to focus on the big economic problems caused by commercial piracy. The Government should clarify this stance and should put more information about what exactly is under discussion into the public domain - and the sooner the better," concludes Carter.

ENDS

© Scoop Media